I often meet people who care about climate change or identify as environmentalists, but who do not regularly ride a bike for transportation. Yet, on-road transportation is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in Napa County.
Riding a bike to reduce these emissions is an easy choice for so many of our trips. Over one-quarter of all trips are under 2 miles, and around one-third are under 3 miles, a very bikeable distance. Our great weather and flat valley floor also make for comfortable riding conditions. And if that’s not enough, e-bikes make getting around by bike more accessible than ever.
Perhaps some who are concerned about climate change feel that driving an electric vehicle is the best way to reduce transportation-related emissions. But the carbon footprint of an EV is 700% higher than that of an e-bike. Electric vehicles are important tools in mitigating climate change, but experts recognize that EVs alone will not get us to our greenhouse gas reduction goals for transportation. Walking, biking, and transit are essential pieces of the puzzle as well.
If you’re interested in shifting some of your short car trips to bike trips, May is the perfect time to start. It’s Bike Month in Napa County, filled with opportunities, resources, and support to get riding. More…
